Protect Human and Students' Rights in Bangladesh
Respected Concerned Authorities,
My name is Ankit Shah, and I am a student in Nepal writing to you from Biratnagar. As a student and global citizen, I am deeply concerned about the current unjust situation in Bangladesh, where innocent students and citizens are facing severe repression for exercising their right to peaceful protest. This situation threatens not only those within Bangladesh but also the future security of our rights to expression globally.
The Bangladeshi government must protect the rights of its citizens, especially the fundamental human rights to life and freedom of expression. However, the very government meant to safeguard these rights has grossly violated them. The recent protests, primarily led by university students, are a response to the re-establishment of a long-standing, abolished quota system for government employment. These protests, which began on July 1, have escalated into violent confrontations due to the government's oppressive measures. Reports indicate that over a thousand students have been killed and thousands more injured.
The government's response is one of the most alarming aspects of this situation. The Bangladeshi authorities have resorted to extreme measures, including deploying military forces, imposing a complete internet blackout, and cutting off communication channels. These actions have led to open firing in the streets of Bangladesh and left people unable to contact their loved ones or access vital information. In addition, the real and brutal situation of Bangladesh is being hidden due to the media and information blockage.
Key Points of Concern:
1. Violation of Rights: The government's actions violate the fundamental human rights of its citizens, particularly the rights to life and expression. The students were initially peaceful and did not resort to violence. However, in response to violent attacks by the forces, they have been forced to hide while still attempting to protest whenever possible. Numerous reports from Bangladeshi students indicate that security forces have entered university premises, residents, and colonies to trap students, firing openly into campuses and places with the help of tanks, and choppers. This brutal response and the government's silence threaten democracy, human rights, and justice.
2. Significance of Universities: Universities are sanctuaries of learning and development, where future leaders are nurtured. The violent intrusion by security forces into these spaces undermines the very foundation of education and the future of the nation. Such actions set a dangerous precedent, threatening the safety and rights of students everywhere.
Given these circumstances, I urgently request you and the concerned authorities to intervene. Your organization and involvement are renowned for championing human rights and maintaining democratic stability worldwide. The current crisis in Bangladesh calls for immediate action, including:
1. Dialogue with the Bangladeshi Government: Facilitate discussions aimed at ceasing the violent crackdown on protesters, and restoring a peaceful environment and internet access.
2. International Pressure: Coordinate with international bodies to apply diplomatic pressure on the Bangladeshi government to respect human rights and ensure the safety of its citizens.
3. Investigation and Accountability: Advocate for an investigation into the reported atrocities and, if appropriate, pursue legal action through the International Criminal Court (ICC) or other relevant bodies.
This appeal is not just my plea but represents the voices of millions of students in Bangladesh, as well as thousands of Nepalese students studying there who are currently cut off from their families. We urge you to stand with us in this critical moment to protect the future of these young individuals and uphold the principles of justice and human rights.
Thank you for your attention and prompt action on this matter. We place our trust in your commitment to safeguarding human dignity and freedom.
Sincerely,Ankit Kumar ShahBiratnagar, Koshi, Nepal
True References Received from Bangladesh Students
https://www.facebook.com/sayem.ul.alam.1/videos/1146055923334749/?app=fbl
https://www.shohid.info/